Have any of you ever rode the hop-on/hop-off tour bus in Rome? Would you recommend it? Thanks!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
There are several with different routes. For first time visitors I think the hop on/off buses give a good orientation. Since the tickets are good for 24 hours, I suggest you buy the ticket around noon, 1 pm. Do one complete loop for orientation, general information, and plan you stops. Then do the sightseeing. Next morning you can use it as a little local transportation and continue when you are refreshed. Two half days always works better than one full day.
Posted by
Alta Loma, CA, USA
1446 posts
We used the HO/HO 110 bus last September. We enjoyed sitting on top & riding around. It takes a while to make a complete loop but it was nice taking pictures from the top of the bus. We rode it once during the day and once at night.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32353 posts
Michelle,
Yes, I've used the Red Bus tours in Rome and I would recommend it. The built-in audio guide on some of the Buses isn't always in the best repair, but be sure to bring your own Earphones rather than using the tacky red ones they provide.
I find the Hop On/Hop Off Buses are a good way to get an "overview" of the major sites. If sitting on the top deck, it's also a good way to get photos. One other benefit is that it's a great way to rest my aching feet after doing lots of walking.
Cheers!
Posted by
Puyallup, WA, USA
881 posts
It's nice for all the reasons mentioned (included audio tour, nice top floor view of all the sites, etc). It's not as good as other cities to use for just plain old "getting around" (it takes a while), but we enjoyed it, and did most of the tour twice.
On a hot day, it can be whelming in the bottom or top, bring water, a hat, and sun screen for the top deck! =)
Posted by
Dallas, TX, USA
1170 posts
This bus tour gives you a quick overview of the most historic sites of the city and lets you see things that you might not go out of your way to see. It is not included with a Roma Pass, and costs 16 Euro if memory serves me. They furnish you with a pair of cheap earbuds to listen to the tour. You just have to find the correct channel. The best place to be, although quite warm, is on the top. You won't see as much from the bottom deck. I've done it twice. Do it!